Kensington Elections Q&A: Tracey Furman

The 2012 Kensington Town Council elections take place from 6-9 p.m. on Monday, June 4, at the .

For a complete guide of candidates and their Q&A responses,

--

Name: Tracey C. Furman
Age: 53
Address: 10411 Detrick Ave.
Marital Status: Married, but live apart, to David Furman, with three children: Nathan, 32, Caitlin, 26, and Samantha, 23.
Hometown/Years in Kensington: from Arlington, VA. Lived in Kensington for 32 years.
Education: Northern Virginia Community College
Profession: Facilities Manager & Treasurer at St Paul’s UMC in Kensington

Patch: Have you run for Council/Mayor before?
Tracey Furman: No.

P: Why would you like to be Kensington's mayor/councilperson?
TF: Like most people who run for office, I want to make a difference and believe I have something to contribute.

P: What experience do you have that would help you serve in this position?
TF: I spent 15 years as a media planner and buyer for a Boutique Marketing Firm that specialized in Legal Corporate branding. I managed multiple media schedules, which required good communication and organizational skills. I hope to use my strong marketing background to mediate and build consensus among residents and commercial property owners in creating a long-term vision of the Town.

P: How did you feel about the Kensington Sector Plan? Were you for or against the previous Kensington council's decision? Why?
TF: The Sector Plan was a well thought-out process that took 5 years from its first introduction to the final approved document. While there are still some skeptical residents out there, I believe the plan will bring about needed revitalization although not at the pace or amount some residents want and some fear.

P: What are your biggest platforms? What issues are most important to you and why?
TF: To bring back to the council civility and collegiality. To create our own vision and design guideline document. It’s important as residents that we invest the time and resources in defining our vision of the Town prior to any redevelopment.  

P: How will you help solve these issues?
TF: To continue transparency and an open process.

P: What do you love about Kensington?
TF: Our strong sense of community which is defined through our relationships with each other and not how tall our building are. 

P: Why should residents vote for you?
TF: For most of my 32 years, I’ve been an engaged resident. Serving on committees, volunteering at events and attending Town meetings. I’ve been a tireless worker; I’m fair and treat people respectfully.

P: Do you have anything else you would like to share?
TF: There is no hiding the fact that some of our recent debates have been challenging in tone, but we need to look forward. I believe we can revitalize our business district while preserving the unique character of the Kensington we all love.